Can scoliosis affect lungs?

Scoliosis results in a restrictive lung disease with a multifactorial decrease in lung volumes, displaces the intrathoracic organs, impedes on the movement of ribs and affects the mechanics of the respiratory muscles.

How do I know if scoliosis is affecting my lungs?

Adults with large curves may have symptoms of back pain, and if it progresses above 80 degrees in the thoracic spine, they may complain of shortness of breath with activity. The shortness of breath is due to the affect on lung function.

Can kyphosis cause breathing problems?

Back pain can be particularly problematic in adults with kyphosis because the body has to compensate for the spinal abnormality. If you have severe kyphosis, your symptoms may get worse over time. You may also have difficulty breathing and eating.

What organs can be affected by scoliosis?

Severe scoliosis (80+degrees) can potentially affect not only the spine and rib cage, but also, may eventually affect the heart, lungs, and other internal organs. Children with severe scoliosis frequently use compensating postures in an attempt to alleviate pain and the imbalance they feel in their body.

What are the signs and symptoms of cervical scoliosis?

The coexistence of chronic neck and back pain, discomfort, stiffness and numbness are common symptoms of cervical scoliosis. [ 11 ], [ 12 ] Scoliosis of the first degree of the cervical spine is a deviation of it laterally from the vertical axis by an angle of not more than ten degrees.

When does lung impairment become noticeable in scoliosis patients?

We are still not clear as to whether changes to lung function in scoliosis patients are more due to the bend in the spine, or its rigidity. Generally speaking, lung impairment can be a complication of severe scoliosis. When Does Lung Impairment Become Noticeable?

What are some of the side effects of scoliosis?

Complications. While most people with scoliosis have a mild form of the disorder, scoliosis may sometimes cause complications, including: Lung and heart damage. In severe scoliosis, the rib cage may press against the lungs and heart, making it more difficult to breathe and harder for the heart to pump. Back problems.

What causes shortness of breath in people with scoliosis?

If scoliosis is left untreated for many years, the increasing curvature of the spine can cause the ribs to restrict lung capacity. This can lead to shortness of breath. Advanced cases of scoliosis can cause one leg to appear shorter than the other due to misalignment of the hips.